Successful European Maritime Day 2026: Working together for a strong European Ocean Act

The German Ocean Foundation’s participation in European Maritime Day from 21 to 22 May 2026 was a resounding success. Through numerous discussions, workshops, panels and bilateral meetings, we were able to forge new partnerships, deepen existing collaborations and launch a wide range of joint initiatives, events and projects with outstanding European and international partners.

Particularly encouraging was the strong willingness among the scientific community, politicians, business and civil society to join forces more closely for the protection and sustainable use of the ocean. The topics of ocean literacy, citizen science, marine conservation, marine CO₂ removal, science communication and the implementation of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development were at the heart of many discussions.

A key priority for the German Ocean Foundation was to highlight the importance of an ambitious and effective European Ocean Act. The numerous meetings during the Ocean Days demonstrated that there is a growing desire for a stronger European ocean policy and that many stakeholders are ready to play an active role in shaping this path.

The discussion with Costas Kadis, the EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, was particularly encouraging. The conversation made it clear that the European Commission has recognised the strategic importance of the ocean for the climate, biodiversity, food security, innovation and economic development. We have received a great deal of support and positive signals for our efforts to place the ocean more firmly on Europe’s political agenda and to support an effective European Ocean Act.

The German Ocean Foundation returns highly motivated and with numerous concrete agreements, particularly with the aim of translating the UN Decade of the Ocean into concrete measures.

The ocean connects Europe – and only by working together we will be able to unlock and preserve its enormous potential for the climate, nature, the economy and society.